Wapen van Amsterdam 1590 - 1639

This is Boëtius Adamsz. Bolswert’s “Wapen van Amsterdam,” a heraldic print likely made in the early 17th century using engraving techniques. During this time, Amsterdam was a burgeoning global trade center, and heraldry was employed to assert the city's power and identity. This piece is not merely a symbol of civic pride but also a complex interplay of cultural, religious, and political themes. Look at the lions: they are standard heraldic figures representing strength, courage, and nobility. These characteristics aren't merely descriptive; they're aspirational, projecting an image of Amsterdam as a powerful and virtuous entity. At the center of the image, we see the shield with three Saint Andrew's Crosses, which are believed to symbolize the virtues of valor, steadfastness, and humility. Above the shield sits a crown, which represents sovereignty. The Latin and Dutch inscriptions remind viewers of the city's divine favor and Christian foundations. They reveal the era's deep entanglement of religious belief and civic identity. It invites reflection on how cities construct and promote their identities through symbols.